The #1 Mistake People Make When Freezing Meat

Freezing meat is something most households do on a regular basis. It’s convenient, helps preserve food for longer periods, and reduces waste. But while it’s easy to throw a pack of meat into the freezer and forget about it, this can lead to one big problem many people face: freezer burn. The #1 mistake people make when freezing meat is not packaging it properly—and this little oversight can have a big impact. Luckily, your local butcher is here to help.

Freezer burn occurs when meat is exposed to air inside the freezer. Moisture escapes from the meat and forms ice crystals on the surface, leading to dry, flavorless, and sometimes discolored patches. It doesn’t make the meat unsafe to eat, but it certainly impacts taste and texture. The culprit? Poor packaging and improper freezing methods.

How to Prevent Freezer Burn

The Right Way to Pack Meat for Freezing

To avoid freezer burn, meat needs to be sealed tightly to prevent air exposure. Here are a few tips to help ensure quality storage:

– Use vacuum-sealed bags or airtight freezer bags with the air fully pressed out.

– Wrap the meat in butcher paper or plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

– Freeze meat in serving-size portions so you only thaw what you need.

– Label each package with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing Never-Refrigerated Meat

It’s best to freeze meat before it ever hits the fridge. When you buy meat directly from a butcher shop like Wilson Farm Meats, it’s often fresher than what’s available at supermarkets. Ask your butcher to prepare it for the freezer right after purchase—this adds time to its shelf life and helps preserve quality.

How a Butcher Can Help You Freeze Meat the Right Way

Expert Packing and Cutting

Your local butcher is trained to portion, wrap, and package meat for optimal freezer storage. At Wilson Farm Meats in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, our experienced team helps customers freeze meat correctly to maintain its quality and flavor. Whether you’re stocking your freezer with beef, pork, poultry, or specialty items, we custom-cut and vacuum-seal to make storage simple.

Advice Tailored to Your Needs

Butchers do more than just sell meat—they offer valuable advice. Wondering how long pork chops will last in the freezer? Or how to store a side of beef? The knowledgeable staff at Wilson Farm Meats works with you to make sure your purchases are stored properly, ensuring you get the best results when it’s time to cook.

Choosing the Right Meat to Freeze

Locally Raised, Farm-Fresh Quality

Meat quality makes a big difference once it’s thawed. Locally raised meats, like those found at Wilson Farm Meats, are often fresher and undergo fewer freeze-thaw cycles than store-bought alternatives. This means better taste and texture after freezing. Wilson Farm Meats offers:

– Heritage-breed pork from Wilson Prairie View Farms in Walworth County

– Custom-cut, locally raised beef from nearby farms

– Fresh poultry and seafood options to suit every dish

Specialty Products for the Freezer

Wilson Farm Meats also produces a range of high-quality, smoked meats that freeze well and maintain flavor. These include:

– Bacon and ham

– Bratwurst, wieners, and summer sausage

– Liver sausage and ring bologna

Each specialty item is processed at their Elkhorn facility, with care and tradition passed down through generations.

Tips for Selecting Meats to Freeze

If you’re planning to fill your freezer, think strategically. Choose meats your family uses often and portion them accordingly. At Wilson Farm Meats, butchers can help you match your household’s eating habits with the best meat choices—whether it’s ground beef for weeknight meals or roasts for Sunday dinners.

– Select lean cuts if you plan to freeze for longer periods, as fat can develop off-flavors over time

– Choose bone-in meats for structure and flavor retention during freezing

– Consider asking the butcher to marinate or season cuts before freezing for easier meal prep

Why Go to a Local Butcher Instead of a Supermarket?

Personalized Service

Supermarkets may focus on volume, but local butcher shops offer service tailored to the customer. At Wilson Farm Meats, our staff take the time to understand your preferences—whether it’s the thickness of a cut, meal prep suggestions, or freezer packaging advice.

Farm-to-Table Assurance

When you search for a “butcher shop near me” in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Wilson Farm Meats stands out with their direct connection to local farms. Their farm-to-table approach means your meat comes from animals raised with care and integrity, supporting both your health and the local economy.

Custom Processing & Special Orders

Wilson Farm Meats offers custom processing for beef, pork, lamb, and veal. Whether you’re a farmer looking for processing services or a customer looking to fill your freezer with specially prepared meats, they’ve got you covered. Special orders are welcome, making it easy to plan for holidays or family gatherings.

Support for Local Agriculture

By choosing Wilson Farm Meats, you’re not just buying quality meat—you’re supporting a network of local farmers and processors. Every purchase helps sustain family farms, preserves traditional farming methods, and promotes food security in your community.

Weekly Specials and Money-Saving Options

Value Boxes and Sales

Another reason to shop at your local butcher is the discounts. Wilson Farm Meats features:

– Weekly specials on popular items

– Yearly Pig Sale with tremendous value

– Value boxes filled with assorted meats for freezer stocking

The cost savings can be significant compared to store-bought meat, especially with better quality offered.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

If you’re into meal prepping or feeding a large family, Wilson Farm Meats can help you plan ahead. By freezing high-quality meats in portions that match your needs, you reduce food waste and improve your kitchen efficiency.

Ideal for Events and Gatherings

Planning a celebration or gathering? Having a stock of flavorful frozen meats makes hosting easier. Wilson Farm Meats can help you select cuts that work well for large meals and offer advice on cooking quantities to ensure everyone leaves full and happy.

Visit Wilson Farm Meats Today

Your Source for Quality, Freshness, and Expertise

If you’re searching for a “butcher shop near me” and live in or around Elkhorn, Wilson Farm Meats should be your first stop. With a proud 150-year farming heritage, they focus on bringing customers the best of locally raised, hand-selected meats.

Store Location and Hours

Wilson Farm Meats is located at 406 S. Wisconsin Street, Elkhorn, WI 53121. The store is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. Stop by and see the difference quality and tradition can make in your meals.

Online Presence and Ordering

Can’t make it into the store? Wilson Farm Meats offers online ordering for a wide range of products. Browse their current specials, value boxes, individual cuts, and more from the comfort of your home. Curbside pickup is also available for added convenience.

Conclusion: Avoid the #1 Freezing Mistake With Help From Your Butcher

Freezing meat the wrong way can leave you with tasteless, dry meals that don’t live up to your expectations. The most common mistake—poor packaging—can be avoided with expert help. A quality butcher, like the team at Wilson Farm Meats, can guide you through storing meat properly, choosing the best cuts, and avoiding food waste. Whether you’re stocking up for the season or need help with custom orders, your butcher is your partner in preparing delicious meals straight from the freezer.

Next time you’re looking for a “butcher shop near me,” remember that Wilson Farm Meats offers not only premium meat but guidance on how to preserve it perfectly. Visit their Elkhorn store today and experience a fresh take on meat shopping grounded in heritage and expertise